Berean Standard Bible
children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God.
Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
--children not born by human parents or by human desire or a husband's decision, but by God.
οἳ οὐκ ἐξ αἱμάτων, οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος σαρκὸς, οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος ἀνδρὸς, ἀλλ' ἐκ Θεοῦ ἐγεννήθησαν.
hoi ouk ex haimatōn, oude ek thelēmatos sarkos, oude ek thelēmatos andros, all' ek Theou egennēthēsan.
The term "children" in this context refers to those who have become part of God's family through spiritual rebirth. The Greek word used here is "τέκνα" (tekna), which emphasizes the relationship and connection to God as a parent. This highlights the intimate and personal nature of the believer's relationship with God, contrasting with a mere legal or formal association. In the broader biblical narrative, being called "children of God" signifies a transformation and adoption into a divine family, underscoring the grace and love bestowed upon believers.
The phrase "born not of blood" signifies a birth that transcends natural lineage or ancestry. The Greek word for "blood" is "αἱμάτων" (haimatōn), which can refer to physical descent or heritage. This indicates that spiritual birth is not dependent on human ancestry or ethnic background. In the historical context of the Jewish people, who often traced their identity through lineage, this statement is radical, emphasizing that spiritual rebirth is available to all, regardless of their earthly heritage.
The word "desire" here is translated from the Greek "θελήματος" (thelēmatos), which can mean will, desire, or intention. This phrase suggests that spiritual birth is not the result of human passion or emotional longing. It underscores the idea that becoming a child of God is not something that can be achieved through human effort or desire alone. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that salvation and spiritual rebirth are acts of divine grace rather than human achievement.
The "will of man" refers to human decision-making or planning. The Greek word "ἀνδρός" (andros) specifically denotes a male, but in this context, it represents humanity in general. This phrase emphasizes that spiritual rebirth is not a product of human decision or planning. It is not something that can be orchestrated or controlled by human beings, highlighting the sovereignty and initiative of God in the process of salvation.
The phrase "born of God" encapsulates the divine origin of spiritual rebirth. The Greek word "ἐγεννήθησαν" (egennēthēsan) is used here, which means to be born or begotten. This emphasizes that the new birth is a supernatural act initiated by God Himself. It is a work of the Holy Spirit, as described in other parts of Scripture, such as John 3:5-8. This divine birth is transformative, bringing individuals into a new life and relationship with God, characterized by His love, grace, and truth. This concept is central to the Christian faith, underscoring the belief that salvation is a gift from God, not earned by human effort.
Divine Birth
This verse emphasizes the divine nature of spiritual rebirth. It indicates that being a child of God is not a result of human ancestry or human desire. The phrase "not of blood" signifies that this birth is not due to biological heritage. "Nor of the will of the flesh" implies that it's not driven by human emotions or carnal desires. "Nor of the will of man" means it’s not a product of human decision or effort. Rather, this birth is from God, highlighting the divine initiative and grace in the process of salvation.
In the context of early Christian theology, this verse speaks to the concept of new creation. Those who believe in Jesus and receive Him are spiritually reborn. This rebirth is an act of God, making believers a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). It distinguishes the spiritual birth from physical birth, underscoring that true children of God are born from above.
Contrast with Human Birth
John 1:13 contrasts human birth with spiritual birth. Physical birth is a natural process involving human parents, but spiritual birth is a supernatural process orchestrated by God. This distinction reinforces the idea that entry into God’s kingdom is not dependent on human lineage or merit but on divine grace and action.
For John's original audience, this message was particularly significant. It reassured Gentile converts that they could become children of God without needing to become Jews first. It also addressed Jewish Christians, reminding them that their heritage alone was not sufficient for salvation. This inclusive message was foundational for the early Christian community, fostering unity among diverse believers.
For modern readers, John 1:13 emphasizes the importance of recognizing the divine origin of their faith and identity as children of God. It encourages believers to rely on God's grace rather than their own efforts or heritage for their spiritual standing. This verse invites reflection on the transformative power of God’s initiative in their lives and the ongoing process of spiritual renewal.
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